There’s just something about entering the cafeteria and seeing purple Disney flyers on every single table that makes me smile. The flyers—a notable step up in paper quality than most organization ads seen around campus—were there to get the word out about Disney’s upcoming visit to my school. Cast Members and Campus Representatives would be recruiting students for the Disney College Program (DCP), the paid internship opportunity that temporarily employs college students in a role at Disneyland or Walt Disney World. And the flyers were on every single table in the entire cafeteria. That’s pretty cool.

Growing up in a household where Disney accounts for the majority of family entertainment bonding, the DCP was always at the back of my mind when thinking about my plans for the future, particularly as college grew closer. Recently I looked into the Program a little further by visiting its official website and watching a few participants’ YouTube vlogs, and I knew that it was something I was definitely interested in applying for. So when I began to see hints of Disney all over my college campus advertising that the Mouse’s friends would be coming to town, I didn’t want to miss their presentation.

I expected an info presentation to be something I would have to seek out myself, not something that would be heavily marketed. I was surprised—but in retrospect, since it’s Disney, I really shouldn’t have been—at the amount of advertising implemented around campus for the presentation. I guess the mindset I had before was that so many students apply to the Program that Disney wouldn’t want to openly ask for hoards of additional applications. However, the presence of such marketing around the entire school in the week leading up to the presentation really made me realize that, just as with anything they do, the Disney Difference would be put to use to let students know about the great opportunities that the DCP offer. It made me feel that they really did need us and valued our participation.

There were posters in hallways, the aforementioned flyers on cafeteria tables, sidewalk chalk art, and, my favorite, an information table in the Student Union, complete with Cast Members present with some portable background music—meaning I intentionally went back to that area later to study just so that I could listen to the music some more. It reminded me that whether it’s something as major as a new theme park attraction or as (seemingly) minor as a presentation to college students, Disney is going to be the best at what they do, and I can truly say in an unbiased way that I haven’t seen any function on campus be as significantly promoted as Disney’s visit.

Upon arrival, the Disney Difference was again present in full force, with balloons and Cast Members outside the building where the presentation took place (as it was in a sort of obscure location), as well as in the hallway leading to the meeting room so that everyone interested would be able to find it.

The presentation, which lasted about 45 minutes, mostly elaborated on much of what is said on the DCP official website, but it was of course great to see the whole Program explained in full, straight from the horse’s (mouse’s?) mouth. It clarified a lot questions I had, misconceptions I had heard, and overall provided a pretty complete rundown of the basics of what the Program entails. The vibe I got in the room was that many kids weren’t aware of what a top-notch opportunity Disney provided through these internships until the presentation, and came away from it with the notion that it could not only be a fun experience, but also an excellent stepping stone toward their career path, regardless of whether their intended career was Disney-centric or not.

Given limited resources, the presentation of course wasn’t too extravagant compared to the regular “shows” we’re used to seeing from Disney, so that means no characters or songs or things like that, but I don’t think people expected that anyway. You’re there to receive information—but, again, since this is Disney, you’re going to get that information in the most efficient and entertaining way possible. At no point did I feel bored or check my watch. In fact, being a Disney fan, there were several moments during the presentation (particularly during the video segments) when I had the urge to immediately lift up the “rock on” hand gesture—though I restrained myself. (As a side note, I also always want to do that after the final drum boom of “The Circle of Life.” Anyway.)

If you have the opportunity, I would definitely encourage students to attend Disney’s presentation when and if it is offered at your school. There are multiple times scheduled in case class gets in the way of attending. Whether you haven’t the slightest clue what the Disney College Program is about, or you think you already have the rundown, you’ll be glad you attended the DCP’s on-campus info session. Besides, in the middle of the hustle and bustle of college life, it’s nice to have a little sampling of Disney magic.

Bonus tip!: After the presentation, text your family telling them that Mickey Mouse was there (he isn’t). Then wait for the phone call later to hear how your mom hooted and hollered around her whole office telling them that Mickey Mouse was at her son’s school.

Blake is a college student focusing on Creative Writing and Media Studies. He enjoys making his family of six watch the parade on Main Street and then sprint to Frontierland in time to see it again. You can follow Blake’s random Disney ramblings on Twitter at @blakeonline, or at BlakeOnline.com.

WDW College Program, New Project Announcement

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show – your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is show #76 for the week of July 20, 2008. I am your host Lou Mongello, bringing you a little bit of Disney magic each week in a fun, family-friendly weekly show.

Because of the MagicMeets event this weekend, I am leaving early, so I won’t be able to cover any news or rumors this week.

Walt Disney World isn’t just the world’s number one vacation destination it’s also one of the most desirable places to work, and for thousands of college students every year, it is home to a classroom unlike any other. The Walt Disney World College Program offers an opportunity for students to work and learn in a program that will forever change their lives. To discuss the program in more detail, I welcome Kristi Breen – Director of Segment College and International Programs Recruitment to answer many of the questions that students and parents may have. Then, to give a perspective from a recent College Program graduate, Katherine Farmer joins me. Now a professional intern for Walt Disney World, she recounts her experiences in the program, and the effects it’s had on her, both personally and professionally.

Before playing some of your voicemails at the end of the show, specifically about the recent Top 10 smells segment, I have one more announcement to make this week about an exciting new project and product. And once again, Tim Foster joins me to introduce you to something weâ€™ve been working on for some time that I think you’ll enjoy.

So sit back, relax, and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show.

Don’t forget that if you are attending MagicMeets, The Dream Team has done an amazing job with the more than 110 lots to be auctioned off to benefit The Make-A-Wish FoundationÂ® of America at the event. Previews of the lots are now available in the forums and in the Dream Team Project Blog. You can also learn more about our efforts there and make a donation as well.

Our friends at MouseFanTravel are dedicated toÂ giving back to the communityÂ and this month they have selected my Dream Team Project!
Just book a vacation package or cruiseÂ through June 30, 2008Â and they
will make a donation to this wonderful cause! THANK YOU!!!

Receive aFREE Rental Car and $50.00 Gas Cardwith your 7 Night Stay in a 3, 4 or 5 Star Vacation Home! Search for the perfect vacation home or call All Star Vacation Homes today to find out how you can save on your Disney World Vacation!

Just mention WDWTRIVIA when you reserve your vacation home!

Note: Not valid during peak/holiday seasons or with any other discount or special.